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This Far by Faith highlights the richness of African American worship through liturgy and music. This collection of hymns and songs, both traditional and contemporary, is a resource used for deepening worship and enriching the spiritual experience. Readers and worshipers alike are invited to explore and expand their connection to faith through this publication from Augsburg Fortress.

For more information about this ministry, visit bethelnewlife.org.

Rosa J. Young initiated the concept of Concordia College Alabama and is often referred to as the “Mother of Black Lutheranism in America.” (Image Credit: New York Public Library)

The association develops important connections, advocates for congregations, promotes implementation of the ELCA African Descent Strategy and provides fellowship, learning and sharing opportunities. It also provides a forum for theological reflection for clergy and lay members through collaboration with other African-descent organizations and networks. Visit the African Descent Lutheran Association website to learn more.

In 1979, Earlean Miller became the first African American woman ordained in the Lutheran Church, in Greensboro, N.C.

In this episode of the ELCA's “Talks at the Desk,” Nicolette Peñaranda, program director for ELCA African Descent Ministries, traveled to the U.S. Virgin Islands and visited several of the oldest Lutheran churches in the Western Hemisphere, including Frederick. Redemption Song | Talks at the Desk | Episode 2 - Season 2 (2023)

Check out this article to learn more about Jehu Jones. Rev. Jehu Jones: The First Black Lutheran Pastor — Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod

To learn more about Nelson Wesley Trout and more African American Lutheran leaders, check out this piece from Living Lutheran.

Commissioned by Lutheran Film Associates, Barbara Connell and William C. Jersey's Oscar-nominated film A Time for Burning documents the attempts of William Youngdahl, pastor of Augustana Lutheran Church, to unite his flock with a neighboring African-descent congregation. The movie was added to the National Film Registry in 2005. A Time for Burning : Lutheran Film Associates : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive

Bethlehem continues its legacy of service to the community by partnering with Tulane University to build affordable housing in the New Orleans area. Read more about this ministry here.